The Kenya Meteorological Department (KMD) has issued an advisory warning of heavy rainfall expected across several parts of the country beginning Sunday, August 17, 2025, through to Tuesday, August 19, 2025.

In a statement sent to the Newsrooms Friday evening, the rains likely to exceed 20 millimetres within 24 hours will affect the Lake Victoria Basin, the Rift Valley, and the Highlands West of Rift Valley before spreading to the Highlands East of Rift Valley, including Nairobi.

“The rainfall pounding parts of the Lake Victoria Basin, the Rift Valley and Highlands West of Rift Valley is expected to intensify to more than 20mm in 24hrs and spread to the Highlands East of Rift Valley on Sunday 17th August, 2025.” Weatherman said.

The weatherman says the downpours are expected to ease gradually from Wednesday, August 20, 2025.

The advisory also noted that strong southerly winds exceeding 25 knots (12.9 m/s) will persist over the eastern sector, posing additional risks.

Areas to be affected

Counties expected to be impacted include Kisumu, Homa Bay, Siaya, Migori, Busia, Kisii, Nyamira, Nandi, Kericho, Bomet, Kakamega, Vihiga, Bungoma, Narok, Baringo, Nakuru, Trans Nzoia, Uasin Gishu, Elgeyo-Marakwet, West Pokot, Turkana, Samburu, Marsabit, Nyandarua, Laikipia, Nyeri, Kirinyaga, Nairobi, Murang’a, Kiambu, Meru, Embu, and Tharaka-Nithi.

Caution to residents

The Kenya Meteorological Department has urged residents in the affected areas to remain vigilant against flash floods, poor visibility, and lightning strikes.

The department warned that sudden flooding may occur downstream even in areas where it is not raining.

“People leaving downstream rivers and along seasonal rivers should be careful since water may appear suddenly even though it may not be raining within the area. ” KMD warned.

Motorists have been advised to avoid driving through moving water, while pedestrians should avoid walking across flooded areas or sheltering under trees and near grilled windows.

The strong winds could also blow off roofs, uproot trees, and cause structural damage, the statement warned.